Health Library

Toothache (Pulpitis)

What is pulpitis or toothache?

Toothaches are caused by an inflammation of the pulp inside the tooth. The pulp is part of the inside of the tooth that has tissue and nerves. A toothache usually follows injury to the tooth. The most common form of injury to the tooth is from dental caries, or a cavity. This is often a result of poor dental hygiene.

What causes a toothache?

Most toothaches are a result of a cavity. Sugar and starch in foods are the substances that cause damage to teeth. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and starch and produce an acid that can eat through the teeth, leading to tooth decay. Different types of bacteria are involved in this process that can lead to an infection in the inside of the tooth.

What are the signs and symptoms of a toothache?

The following are the most common signs and symptoms of a toothache. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Signs and symptoms may include:

Constant, throbbing pain in a tooth

A tooth is painful to touch

Pain in the tooth that worsens with hot or cold foods or liquids

A sore and tender jaw in the area of the tooth

Fever

Malaise (generally tired and feeling badly)

How is a toothache diagnosed?

The symptoms of a toothache may resemble other medical conditions or dental problems. Always consult your child's doctor or dentist for a diagnosis. A toothache is usually diagnosed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child and your child's mouth. Your child's doctor will probably refer your child to a dentist for complete evaluation and treatment. At the dentist, X-rays (a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic radiation to produce images of internal tissues, bones, teeth, and organs onto film or captured digitally on a computer) of the teeth may be taken to help in the diagnosis and treatment of the problem.

What is the treatment for a toothache?

Specific treatment for a toothache will be determined by your child's doctor based on: